Gary Horton opened his June 25 column with a scene from the classic movie, “Dr. Strangelove” (1964). I’ve seen it several times myself and I love it more every time I watch it. Horton goes on to lament the belligerent nature of our species and that we never seem to listen or learn from history. There is a reason for that, and I will refer to one of my own favorite movies for that reason. “Planet of the Apes” (1968), starring Charlton Heston.
Taylor: You’re afraid of me, and you hate me. Why?
Dr. Zaius: Because you’re a man. And you’re right, I have always known abut man. From the evidence I believe his wisdom must walk hand-in-hand with his idiocy. His emotions must rule his brain. He must be a warlike creature who gives battle to everything around him, even himself.
Taylor: What evidence? There were no weapons in that cave.
Dr. Zaius: The Forbidden Zone was once a paradise. Your breed made a desert of it, ages ago.
You can lament our predicament and point fingers of blame every day for the rest of your life, Mr. Horton. Sadly, that will not change a thing. Won’t even scratch the surface. Those on the other side can do likewise with the same result. It’s US, Mr. Horton. It’s ALL of us. WE are the problem: you, me, us, them, everyone. Everyone, Mr. Horton, everyone is the problem. We’re a miserable species. If you don’t believe me, then read the Old Testament. It’s all there in those pages.
Arthur Saginian
Santa Clarita
